The Valentines Day Post

With Valentines day well and truly in the lurch (less than 6 days), I thought a post surrounding the subject would be fitting. Whether you're in a relationship or single, Valentines Day can be celebrated in many different shapes and forms. So I have attempted to cover all grounds, with ideas of gifts and things to do if you're loved up or flying solo this February 14th. 

Things to do if you're in a relationship:

Try Something New

Try doing something you and your partner have never done before, a comedy show, a cooking class the possibilities are endless and doing something out of the ordinary will ensure it to be a Valentines you won't forget. 

'The Classic'

You could just go for the classic cinema date or dinner and drinks. You might not get to spend a lot of time with your other half normally so getting dolled up and going to see a film or making reservations for your favourite restaurant can still be a treat. 

Stay In  

You don't have to go out and spend a fortune every year with your boyfriend or girlfriend. Why don't you stay in and cook dinner together in your pjs, or order in food, make a den and watch whatever you want. Going out to wine and dine doesn't have to be your only option. More than likely I will be opting for this this year. 

Things to do if you're single: 

A Sleepover

Invite you're friends around and have a sleepover together, buy enough chocolate to last you a year and download your favourite film. There's no need to spend the day miserable!

Go Out 

Go out to your favourite restaurant with your other single friends and go for drinks afterwards. There's no reason why you shouldn't get dolled up either! 

Treat yourself

Go and get your hair or nails done, book yourself in for that massage you've been wanting to get for ages. There is no better time to pamper yourself, make a day of it and do it with your friends or family or go alone, either way you will come out feeling amazing. 

What to buy if you're in a relationship:

Make Something 

Again, there is no need to spend hundreds on a present for your significant other. Make something for them, this will probably work out terribly but that's the fun of it. If they like tea, make them a personalized mug, Instead of buying a generic card that says how much you love them on it make it, it can be as romantic or non romantic as you want!

Food

If your boyfriend or girlfriend is anything like me this would be ridiculously appreciated. Buy them a load of their favourite chocolates, bake them their favourite cake or surprise them with a dominos pizza.. cheap and cheerful! 

Listen to Their Hints

If they have been dropping hints about something they need or would like to have.. go for it! It could be something simple such as needing new earphones or a new game or lush bath bomb they were excited about. Listen to the small hints they drop and act on it, the effort will be appreciated! 

What to buy if you're single:

Lingerie

You don't have to be in a relationship to buy pretty underwear. Even if no one sees it, you will still feel good about yourself. You could go all out and buy a set from Victoria secret or just pop into Penny's or Primark and pick up something for under 15 euro!

Make up

That new naked palette you've had your eye on for months, buy it! There is no better time than now to treat yourself and if you don't have a boyfriend or girlfriend to do it for you, then it's only right that you do it!

Perfume

Perfume is something I rarely buy for myself but like I said above if you don't have anyone else to buy a bottle for you then why should you be deprived, spend some of your hard earned money on making you feel good about yourself! 

What are your plans for this Sunday? 

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Adele x

The Outfit Post | Twenty Three

Jumper: Vintage 

Jeans: Vintage 

Runners: Addidas

Firstly I will point out the obvious here and say how awful these pictures came out, no one understands how hard it is to take pictures during winter, with wind almost blowing my tiny wendy house door off it's hinges, the sun constantly coming and going making my pictures either too dark or too light, the struggle is real. The sooner the better Winter is over. I promise I will try to get better at the whole outfit picture thing in the meantime! 

I put this outfit together in my head not knowing how it would actually look on, but I don't think it's too bad. I'm quite into masculine silhouettes so it suits me perfectly!

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Adele x

The Game Changer | Barbie's New Body

Having got wind of the new Barbie dolls on Friday, I knew a blog post had to follow. Being a huge fan of Barbie from a very young age the impact she has had on girls and boys of all ages around the world is very apparent. With her original 5'9, blonde haired, big breasted body being a constant reference point and measurement of beauty for over 50 years, it is high time that this image is no longer the only representation of what we deem to be 'beautiful'. 

I do feel that the original Barbie gets a bad wrap, at the end of the day she is just a doll that was created with the intent of allowing children to enjoy playing with her, living out their own dreams and fantasy worlds through her, so for that reason I will forever have a soft spot for Barbie. However, I think it is the most wonderful thing that future generations will now be able to live out their dreams and fantasies with a Barbie that is relate able to them, whatever size, shape or colour they are. Beauty has been given a much broader spectrum and now children and adults alike can play with new petite, tall and curvy Barbies, with 33 new looks altogether.

(images- screenshots from their direct website - barbie.com)

Mattel wrote in a statement "By introducing more variety into the line, Barbie is offering girls choices that are better reflective of the world they see today". I for one could not be more excited about this new movement and can only hope that the progress continues, I would love to see Barbies with different disabilities next, but for now I could not be prouder of Mattel for abolishing ideological beauty and giving my future sons and daughters the opportunity to play with a doll of their likeness, reinforcing to them that they are beautiful, however they might look.

Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!


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Adele x

The Life Post | Combating 'FOMO'.

FOMO to me, is something of a trivial first world problem, something that in the grand scheme of things is minuscule compared to some of the problems out there, but when experienced can be very real and pretty serious. 

Firstly what is FOMO? FOMO is the 'fear of missing out'. It is that anxious feeling you get when one of your friends texts you asking you to go for drinks but you're already in bed scoffing enough chocolate to feed a third world country with sudocrem strategically placed on your spots and half way through your favourite Friends episode (the one where Ross whitens his teeth for a date but it all goes horribly wrong) No? just me? cool. But even though you know exactly what happens to Ross and his luminous teeth you kindly decline the invitation, it would be far too much trouble to swap the fluffiest pyjamas you own for your glad rags, and socializing? no thanks. Decision made, you're staying in. However what happens next is what is known as the dreaded 'FOMO'. You spend the rest of night feeling guilty for not going out, and seeing the snapchats of your friends having fun makes you a little jealous and you begin to question your decision. We've all been there and it's not the most pleasant of situations to be in.

In light of all this I have compiled together my best tips for combating this nasty state of mind which will hopefully help a few people to rid of this epidemic which is sweeping the nation.

Say Yes 
In particular when it comes to new social situations like college or work. If like me you tend to shy away from groups of new people you meet and the idea of going out and socializing with them in a confined space for a number of hours is terrifying, put these thoughts to one side. You will never make friends or form new bonds with people if you don't put yourself out there. If you keep saying no to going out and trying new things eventually people will stop inviting you and you will never have the chance to become closer to them. Say yes to any invitation that comes and you'll surprise yourself how much fun you will have in the end.

Social Media
We are the luckiest generation in the sense that we have the ability to stay connected with everyone and anyone with the click of a button. For example, to ensure you don't miss any of your favourite bands or singers gigs you can follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram etc and receive notifications on any upcoming shows they may have in your area. Message your friends, see what their plans are for the weekend so you know in advance and there will be no last minute rushing around trying to get ready.

Sometimes it's Okay to Say No
I know this completely contradicts everything I just said above, but sometimes it really is okay to stay in and experience FOMO. Opting to stay in doing something you enjoy like reading or watching a film instead of going out to a sweaty nightclub is completely fine too. Going out into town every weekend may not be to everyone's taste (myself being one). Having some time to yourself while saving money is sometimes the wise option, and once you strike up a good balance between going out and socializing and having 'you time' there is no shame in suffering from FOMO every now and again.

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So I hope this was helpful to at least one person, let me know your thoughts in the comments section!

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Adele x

The Outfit | Twenty Two

 Skirt: Vintage 

Top: Topshop

Denim Shirt: Eager Beaver (Vintage) 

Boots: Pennys (Primark)

I'm constantly torn between wanting to buy new clothes but also wanting and needing to save money. With the summer fast approaching I have a lot of saving to do between now and then so going on an asos spending spree weekly just can't be a thing anymore.

With all this in mind, a couple weeks ago a moment of madness came over me and I decided to have a scavenge through my mams wardrobe in search of a few new items to add to my own, and surprisingly I came across some absolute gems. This skirt being one of them. It's a size 12 but has a wrap around tie so is easily adjusted to any size, it's surprisingly flattering and it reminds me of something you would find in American Aparrel. Best thing about it though? I now own it and it cost me nothing, apparently one of the perks of living in someone's womb for 9 months is that you get first choice on any unwanted items of clothing.. sweet! I kept it pretty laid back with an over sized denim skirt, a plain grey crop top and scruffy old boots.

More posts to come on other items I found inside Momma Miner's wardrobe!

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Adele x

The Review | Soap and Glory's Peaches and Clean Deep Cleansing Milk.

Another year another review. One of the promises I made to myself on turning 20 last year was to start putting together a decent skincare routine that I will thank myself for when I turn the dreaded 30. Prior to the last few months I had been taking my make up off with a baby wipe and sticking on some moisturizer when I remembered, but now since i'm a big girl I go the whole hog, cleanse, tone AND moisturize.. daily.

I'm a huge fan of Soap and Glory's cosmetic range so when I saw this little gem for just over a fiver I couldn't resist picking it up. Firstly the size of the bottle and the amount of product inside it is very good value for money, which initially lead me to believe that the product itself can't be all that good, but I am happy to say I was wrong. For all skin types, it claims to purify, clarify and dissolve make up while energizing and smoothing the skin. In the winter, my skin can tend to become a little dry so a product like this is exactly what I need, nothing too harsh or drying on my skin but also something that doesn't give me too much moisture, reeking havoc on my already oily skin. 

Taking one or two pumps I massage this into my face focusing on my eyes and watch all of my make up melt off, I rinse it and if I feel the need I will repeat the process again, but usually once does the trick. Then I carry on with my toning and moisturizing. Since starting to use this I can see a difference in my skin, nothing life changing but generally it is clearer, more moisturized and it has made removing make up a lot more kind on my skin, no pore pulling at my eyes with an old baby wipe! All of these small things have also made make up sit a lot better on my skin, there are no dry or oily patches, my concealer etc. sits evenly on my whole face which makes me very happy indeed. 

So if you're looking for a cheap cleanser that does exactly what it says on the tin, this is the product for you! 

If you have any suggestions of other cleansers or Soap and Glory products you think I should try, do leave me a comment down below!

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Adele x

How to Style the Turtleneck.

Happy 2016 all! My first post of the year I have decided to dedicate to the wonderful turtleneck. 

Love them or loath them, there is no denying that turtlenecks are back on the fashion scene and are here to stay. Understandably they are not to everyone's taste, but personally I can't get enough of them. Easily dressed up or down, there is no better way to make a statement at any event with one. Like the little black dress, an investment in a turtleneck will effortlessly take you from season to season (depending on which part of the world you live in).

Whether it's a chunky knit you're after or thinner, more figure hugging material, it's so easy to experiment with them. I put together a few different ways I would wear turtlenecks, playing around with different textures, colour schemes and silhouettes. I tried to vary each look just to get across how versatile they can be. You can play it safe with a chunky knit on top and a feminine skirt on the bottom or experiment with less traditional feminine pieces and pair it with wide leg trousers, layered up with different lengths and colours, the possibilities are endless!

Are you a turtleneck convert or will you be giving the trend a miss?

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Adele x

The Review | Lush's 'Cosmetic Warrior' face mask.

Oh look, another Lush review, and this time in comes in the form of a yet again another face mask. 

Not so long ago I did a review of their 'Cupcake' face mask, which went down a treat. But this time after my visit to Lush I opted for a different mask to give a go. For oily to combination skin, Cosmetic Warrior claims to combat spots and smooth troubled skin. With it's antiseptic ingredients, garlic, tea tree, honey and deep cleansing kaolin, it's aim is to banish breakouts and even any redness. 

So does it do the job? Yes, being honest as with Cupcake it doesn't work miracles, no spots magically disappeared nor did I wake up looking like a supermodel after using it but it did the job it claims to do quite sufficiently. The smell when compared to the chocolaty goodness of Cupcake isn't the best, a combination of garlic and tea tree oil is pretty prominent, but it's nothing I couldn't deal with. 

This mask is perfect for the colder seasons, if like me, your skin takes a toll in the winter months it will add  moisture into some areas unlike Cupcake which is a lot more drying, ideal for summer. I found my skin was a lot softer after using it, any redness from spots or marks was reduced and the my overall complexion had a little glow.  

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What lush face masks do you use?

Adele x

November Nail Polish.

 L-R: Rimmel 'Little Bo Peep', Rimmel 'Ruby Crush', LA Colours 'Current', Rimmel 'Beige Babe'.

It's been far too long since I have made a post on nail varnish.. possibly a year actually. Why is it always around this time of year, when the weather takes an inevitable turn for the worst I shift my attention to nail colours? Anyway, as it's currently mid way between Autumn and Winter I thought I would put together a little post on some of the colours i'm feelin' this season.

I'm trying to steer clear of the classic gold, green and red colours for the minute, because I am a grinch that will not embrace the Christmas spirit until it is Decemeber. However, I couldn't not include the gorgeous glittery red and silver colour by Rimmel, I think it is something a little unusual and you don't have to go the whole festive hog and paint every nail with it, you could just paint your ring finger for a less full on effect.   The rest are quite muted colours such as grey and brown that are sleek and subtle that go perfectly with a matte overcoat and lastly the only colour not by Rimmel, 'Current' is the ideal transition colour that will see you through both Autumn and Winter. 

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What colours will you be wearing this season?

Adele x

The Outfit | Twenty One

Shirt: Forever21 (men)

Culottes: Forever21

Brogues: Pennys (Primark)

So it would appear Forever21 projectile vomited on me, this was not purposely planned.
Anyway, I feel awfully like a 'grown up' in this outfit. It may not be to everyone's taste, but I personally think androgynous looks can do no wrong. This can completely be made more feminine by pairing it with some heels and teaming the shirt with a bralette peaking through underneath. Buuut I decided to go full on boy, because I can.

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Adele x

The (kind of) Daily Face.

Alright so firstly I will address that fact that I am no make up artist, in any sense of the word, but I do quite regularly paint my face with pretty stuff in an attempt to convey some kind of life into my 'lecture at 9am' face. 

Rimmel exaggerate lip liner, Barry M Brow Wow, Natural collection liquid eyeliner, Sleek contour kit, Collection Lasting Perfection concealer, Bourjous Volume Clubbing (ultra black) mascara, Bourjois BB bronzing cream, Soap and Glory Sexy Mother Pucker lipstick.

When I say this is my daily routine, I mean generally 3-4 days a week I will look like this and the rest I will look like gollum. 

In light of all this I have compiled together all of the products I use for this look (listed above) and surmised my morning routine into a glamorous time frame, talking you briefly through each step towards my look. I'm quite a firm believer in natural beauty and like to use make up to enhance features, opposed to concealing and changing them so I don't use a great amount of products. 

 7:12am: I like to keep things pretty simple and that starts with my base. I don't wear foundation, so I will begin by simply concealing my under-eyes and blemishes with my collection concealer, I then take my bourjois bronzing cream, which is amazing for a natural glow, and buff it into the standard contouring areas using a damp beauty blender. 

7:20am: I will then move onto eyes and create a subtle wing, I understand that not everyone has time for this but practice makes perfect and after many years I have this shit down and can do it in under five minutes, so don't give up! When this is done I will add some mascara and fill in my eyebrows using my barry m eyebrow pencil. 

7:30am Usually at this point I am in a mad scramble to get out the door and catch my train so I will throw some highlighter onto my cheekbones and over my eyebrow, quickly line my lips, and put on my lipstick en route to the train station. 

This post is a little different to pretty much all of my others, I thought I would step out of my comfort zone anyhoo and give it a go.. don't be afraid to leave your thoughts below!

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Adele x

The Outfit | Twenty

Top: Primark

Culottes: Forever21

Runners: Penny's/Primark

Alright so it's pretty much been forever since I've made an outfit post. I'm not going to bombard you with half arsed excuses but things have been pretty busy lately with starting a new job and college, however I can only hope that sparse outfit posts will soon be a thing of the past and I can manage to fit one or two in every week or so in between everything. 

I'll start off by pointing out the absolute obvious and say how f'ing perfect is this top?! If you're a Friends fanatic like me you'll appreciate the brilliance of this (#teamross). I picked it up in Liverpool over the summer for something ridiculous like £7. Thrown together with these culottes and runners, sure you couldn't go wrong! 

Until next time lovelies! 

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Adele x

Styling | Mom Jeans

Mom Jeans- noun informal 

'Women's jeans of a style regarded as unfashionable or unflattering' 

"Just because you're 40+, it doesn't mean you have to start walking around in mom jeans"

Alright, I think it's safe to say Mom Jeans have come full circle since the 80's. Particularly in the last year or so we've seen a total revival of the style of jean and in light of that I am dedicating a post to styling them from day to night showing just how versatile these little gems are and how useful it is to have a pair in your wardrobe.

I opted for a classic pair of light wash denim mom jeans from Topshop, however if you have the time and want to find a cheaper pair I would recommend looking in Vintage shops, it takes some dedication to find the perfect pair but they're a fraction of the price compared to places like Topshop and American Apparel and will last a lifetime!

As far as styling goes, I went with a simple layered daytime look, perfect for throwing on in the morning if you're heading off to college or doing errands, teamed with a pair of runners you're sure to be comfortable all day.
 The nighttime look is a lot more feminine, I personally am obsessed with the colour yellow, I understand that it isn't everyone's cup of tea but I think it contrasts perfectly with denim, dressing it up with a pair of heels and you're favourite clutch and you're good to go!

So to conclude, Mom Jeans are most definitely far from unflattering and unfashionable and in 2015 in my opinion are a must have basic wardrobe essential.

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Adele x